Life in the Trinity: An Introduction to Theology with the Help of the Church Fathers - Donald Fairbairn

Sharing in the life of the Trinity

Life in the Trinity: An Introduction to Theology with the Help of the Church Fathers
Author: Donald Fairbairn
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 248

Has the Church made too much of the Trinity? Reading Life in the Trinity by Donald Fairbairn makes me realize that this doctrine is crucial and practical.

What is the heart of Christian life? Fairbairn suggests “part of the answer is that a life reflecting the love Jesus has shown for us lies close to the heart.” He sees “first and foremost, then, Christian life is a process of abiding in Christ, of relying on him, of recognizing and maintaining one’s connection to him in all aspects of life.”

To take it further, and where the real beauty of this book lies, is seeing our relationship with Christ in terms of his relationship with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Fairbairn writes, “He (Christ) is offering himself to us as a person, that we might share in his most deeply personal relationship, the relationship he has with God the Father.” Seen in this context, the Christian life is a sharing in the life of the Trinity. This is the scarlet thread that runs through every chapter.

Fairbairn expertly walks readers through Trinitarian theology, which is fascinating, but his most important work is sharing relational and practical implications. He makes it clear that the worth of everyone lies in our being made in the image of God. “Christianity teaches us that our significance does not ultimately lie in what we accomplish or what we do: it lies in the one to whom we belong,” he writes. “Our significance is not something that can be earned; it is something given to us by God.”

He is also a wise guide into the thought of the Church fathers. He makes judicious use of their writings, to inform modern perspectives that can be lacking. He draws most from four Patristic writers: Irenaeus of Lyons, Athanasius of Alexandria, Augustine of Hippo and Cyril of Alexandria. Readers get some of their most fruitful and biblical thoughts.

The only time I felt unsure of Fairbairn was his discussion of John 6 where Jesus enjoins eating his flesh and drinking his blood. Fairbairn sees this as a reference to celebrating the Eucharist. He notes that “the early church saw its regular celebration of the Eucharist as crucial to believers’ continuation in Christian life.” He adds, “To say that the Eucharist is central is to imply that communal worship in general is central to the cultivation of people’s relationship to the Father and the Son.” He closes this section by observing that “in the mind of the early church, cultivating a direct relationship to Christ was not by any means an individual task. It involved the entire community of faith, as well as the devotion of each individual…. Life in the Trinity is life in the church and involves regular participation in the worship and the mysteries Christ has entrusted to the church.”

This is not intended to be a comprehensive book in theology but rather a supplement to the more exhaustive and systematic variety.

Just catching the glimpse this book gives of the Trinity is staggering. It is also mind-boggling to realize that becoming a Christian makes us part of this triune fellowship. Being able to better see the Godhead and the beautiful relationship it engenders, makes this a lovely book.

Duets - The Blind Boys of Alabama

The Blind Boys’ commendation

Duets
Artist: The Blind Boys of Alabama
Label: Saguaro Road Records
Length: 14 tracks/56:35 minutes

If The Blind Boys of Alabama ever needed commendation, which they don’t, Duets provides it by being a showcase for the wide variety of artists with whom they have collaborated. Also telling are the many songs on this release that come from Grammy-nominated or Grammy-winning albums.

Appropriately, the CD opens with “Take My Hand” by Ben Harper from the Grammy-winning There Will Be a Light (2004). It was through that award that The Blind Boys came to my attention and perhaps the attention of many others.

What is it about The Blind Boys that causes so many artists to want them on their albums? Being in the music business, it must have something to do with their sound, which for me hearkens to the Negro spirituals sung by world-weary voices that knew hardship. It’s an authentic gospel sound that enhances songs that resonate with The Blind Boys.

Two of the most powerful tracks are back to back blues excursions: “I Had Trouble,” by Charlie Musselwhite and “When the Spell is Broken,” by Bonnie Raitt. The latter song features The Blind Boys on a great-sounding refrain toward the end: “Can’t cry if you don’t know how.” Their voices fit well with the blues, but among the wide range of styles that you find are country, black gospel, Americana, reggae and something that sounds a little alternative.

In regards to the latter, I’m thinking of “Jesus” by Lou Reed, one of three previously unreleased recordings. I found this track mesmerizing from the first time that I heard it. Sparse instrumentation and short, simple lyrics given with a vulnerable delivery perfectly complement this song of brokenness. It’s a plea from one who has fallen from grace and now seeks to find their place. This song also caught the attention of the legendary Glen Campbell, who recorded it on Meet Glen Campbell.

On the contemplative and intriguing side is “Secular Praise,” by Timothy B. Schmidt, a member of the Eagles. As he reminisces about his life he adds, “Don’t go to church but I feel the weight.” Could this be the weight of glory that people feel when the catch sight of an Almighty God? It’s not clear who he is referring to when he sings, “Still I hope to shake the hand of fate before I die.”

Another interesting collaboration with someone not as well known is Susan Tedeschi on “Magnificent Sanctuary Band,” a gospel song produced by the well-respected Joe Henry, who produces another song on this recording, “None of Us Are Free,” by Solomon Burke. Tedeschi is known as a blues guitarist and the wife of Derek Trucks, one of two guitarists for The Allman Brothers Band.

I can’t help thinking that The Blind Boys are an obvious bridge between the gospel and the world of music. Their lives and voices are an influence for good. This CD serves as a fascinating introduction to their music, which thankfully has intersected mainstream music in such a rewarding way.

The Indelible Image: The Theological and Ethical Thought World of the New Testament - Ben Witherington III

Scholar at work

The Indelible Image: The Theological and Ethical Thought World of the New Testament (Volume One) The Individual Witnesses
Author: Ben Witherington III
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 856

“Scholar at Work” would be an appropriate cover sticker for this book. This might also be the most important reason for reading it. I watch in admiration when a scholar like Ben Witherington III employs the tools of his trade to examine Scripture.

In this first volume on New Testament theology, he focuses on exegetical work. What qualifies him for such a task? Prior to this project, he took on the rather daunting challenge of writing a substantial commentary on every book of the New Testament. This exercise served him well as he works in chronological order through the writings (and in the case of Jesus, the teachings) of all who contributed to the New Testament canon. In his effort to get at the heart of the major themes, he defines words and looks at their usage. He provides historical background, and he frequently resorts to extrabiblical writings to provide context.

He has an amazing grasp of these outside writings, and I wish he had explained their importance, but from his use it is plain that they provide corroborating evidence in support of the Scriptures. Again, the most valuable learning is watching Witherington attempt to determine the original meaning of texts. What we end up with is a multitude of Bible resources rolled into one. With extensive name, subject and verse indexes in the back, this is an extremely valuable reference, one that should be in any theological library, particularly those that support higher education in biblical subjects.

Even the most learned may find new insights in the wealth of exposition. One interesting example in his discussion of Matthew 19:1-12, where Jesus seams to permit divorce in the case of “adultery,” or “immorality.” Witherington states that the original term translated “adultery” comes from a word that means “prostitute.” He writes that the exception could be in a case where the wife has taken up prostitution. The word can also refer to the sin of incest. Jesus may have been commenting “on the very situation that John the Baptizer was beheaded for protesting against: the incestuous marriage of Herod Antipas to his brother’s wife.” If the exception is in the case of incest, a devout Jew would not see this as a proper marriage.

Since the word “porneia” can refer to a wide variety of sexual aberrations, translating the word in the normal way would seam to make Jesus more lenient than some ancient Jewish teachers in regard to divorce. The disciples reaction to all of this, “If that is the way it is between a man and a woman, it is better not to marry,” supposes a stricter view. Witherington suggests that what is meant “is either ‘except on the grounds of prostitution’ or more likely ‘except on the grounds of incest.’” He believes this makes good sense when compared with Mark 10, “where Jesus’ teaching is said to be ‘no divorce,’ and also 1 Corinthians 7, where Paul says that Jesus’ teaching was ‘no divorce.’”

In this survey, one major theme that continually emerges is Witherington’s view that salvation is not ironclad. He finds manifold support against the position of “once saved, always saved.” I wondered if being a Methodist scholar shaped his interpretations, but he displays a careful fidelity to the Scriptures, even if some finer points are arguable.

Further, he is not teaching the Wesley doctrine of sinless perfection, only that Christians must work out their salvation with fear and trembling. He seems to concede that it may be hard to lose one’s salvation, but it is possible.

It’s almost startling how clear this possibility of loss becomes. It probably serves as a much-needed correction to the idea that what comes after salvation is not as important as conversion. Witherington emphasizes the two-sided nature of salvation: faith and works. Somewhere over the course of time the latter has been uncoupled from the former. Highlighting so many passages that seem to show salvation is conditional is somewhat novel and unsettling, but we need to know the truth. More than once I wished that this kind of careful analysis would filter down into our pulpits.

Calvinists and others might take issue with Witherington’s Arminian positions. I encourage them to read him. He provides strong support for his views, and if they follow his logic with an open mind, they will at least come away with a better understanding of an opposing argument. Believers in Christ should not be afraid to hold up their beliefs to scrutiny and change them if needed.

Could this book be shorter? Maybe, but the length is what makes this so comprehensive. In this first volume he gives voice to all of the individuals whose thought, actions and writings comprise the New Testament. The second volume will be a synthesis that will focus equally on belief and behavior. Witherington repeatedly shows that there is no separating the two.

Songs 4 Worship: Country Live - Various Artists

Country style adds reverence
Songs 4 Worship: Country Live
Various Artists
Label: Time Life (www.timelife.com)
Length: 15 tracks/71:49 minutes

Songs 4 Worship: Country Live follows Songs 4 Worship Country, a 2007 studio release that has been on Billboard’s Top Country album chart since its release. That recording features some of the same artists (and in some cases the same songs, except in this recording they are live) that you find here. Having the same song, even if performed by a different artist, is a bit of a drawback if you already have the studio recording. Another is the use of popular praise and worship songs that have become overly familiar to many. But before you write this recording off, know that these are just minor weaknesses to an album that is full of excellent performances.

Spotlighting some of the best praise and worship songs in a country light brings an added reverence that you don’t find on the pop versions. It’s like they are born anew to be the means of adoration for a new audience. The artists highlight the best aspects of already strong compositions, and some tracks are outside the standard fare.

What immediately comes to mind is “Revelation Song” by Susan Ashton. The press release accompanying this CD states that it has been at the top of the Christian radio charts for 13 weeks. Ashton was prominent in the Christian music scene before recording two country albums for Capitol, the second, for reasons unknown to her was never released. She has kept a low profile for several years, and I can only hope that we will hear more from her. This song is not only my favorite; it’s off the charts! I found myself caught-up with its great swelling tide of exaltation.

Another standout is “There is a Reason” by Alison Krause & Union Station. I like this one for different reasons. It does not address God directly. It is more of a thoughtful reflection on how difficulties bring us closer to God. It features some exquisite picking that includes a Dobro solo.

I enjoy the deep voices and harmonies of the Palmetto State Quartet on “Trading My Sorrows.” “How Can I Keep from Singing” by Lenny LeBlanc was a great choice for an opening song. It soars. Like Susan Ashton, this is another artist that seems to have crossed over to country music. LeBlanc is credited with songwriting on two other songs performed on this CD: “Above All” and “We All Bow Down.” The latter is performed movingly once again, as on the prior studio release, by Ricky Skaggs.

Collin Raye shows his versatility by performing the liveliest song, “Get Up in Jesus’ Name,” with gospel-like backing vocals, and then switching gears to perform the lovely “Indescribable,” written in part by Laura Story and made popular by Chris Tomlin.

Every performance is excellent. These songs were captured live at the historic Ryman Auditorium, with the exception of “Open the Eyes of my Heart” by Randy Travis, which comes from a previous recording. I think it’s wonderful that the Ryman, which originally was a church, became the venue for some of the brightest stars in country music casting their glory like crowns before the throne of God in humble adoration and worship. They do their best to recognize the holy and awesome Creator as the light that outshines all others.

Redefining Beautiful: What God sees when God sees You - Jenna Lucado with Max Lucado

Beauty as God defines it

Redefining Beautiful: What God sees when God sees You
Author: Jenna Lucado with Max Lucado
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Pages: 221

In Redefining Beautiful Jenna Lucado writes in the same conversational mode that has made Max Lucado endearing to so many people. Max contributes throughout with excerpts and adaptations from previous writings, which serve to highlight his daughter’s thoughts.

Jenna is chattier than Max; girls and young women will find it easy to relate. She gets candid about beauty tips that deal more with identity than outward appearance. Jenna helps girls become all that God wants them to be, even if starts with something as unconventional as “embracing your weirdness.” It’s another way of saying, “Be yourself!”

Jenna is surprisingly transparent. She takes us not only into her inner psyche but the world of teenage girls. I found it fascinating. How often do you get to see life from the perspective of the opposite gender? Girls will find a friend and an advocate.

One subject that rightly gets a lot of attention is the influence of fathers. In introducing the topic she quotes Dr. Kevin Lehman, “The (most important) ingredient in any woman’s life is her relationship with her father.” She gives hope to those whose fathers have failed them, which leads me to a general observation about Max and now Jenna.

The Lucados make the gospel good news. They constantly remind us that God loves us unconditionally, no matter what. As Max writes, “God loves you just the way you are. If you think his love for you would be stronger if your faith were stronger, you are wrong. If you think his love would be deeper if your thoughts were deeper, wrong again. Don’t confuse God’s love with the love you get from people. Love from people often increases with performance and decreases with mistakes. Not so with God’s love. He loves you right where you are.”

But it does not stop there, as Jenna adds, “Being beautiful means overflowing in love for others. . . . God fills us with his love not only to show us how much he loves us but so that it will overflow to others.”

As Jenna writes of Joyce Meyer, who she uses as an example, change must sometimes begin with facing the truth about ourselves and our past. It may be as simple as realizing we need help. Jenna wants girls to give God the pen so that He can change the way their story is going. If they give Him their hearts, He can write a beautiful ending regardless of the ugliness of the past.

I was deeply impressed by the chapter on submitting to authority. Just the thought of it may seem distasteful, but as Jenna’s friend Hannah learned, it can mean “opportunity, wisdom, and triumph.” At first, Hannah would not obey her coaches. She disregarded what they told her, and as a result, did not attain the status she thought she deserved. After realizing her pride, her attitude toward authority changed. She trusted her coaches to achieve her goals. She realized that “attitudes and actions toward authority are a reflection of how we respond to the authority of God. I have learned that when we respect authority, some of that respect flows back to us from others. Good things come back—rewards!” Taking hold of this one truth can minimize the pain we go through from our own willfulness. It can also be the difference between success and failure.

This book is filled with practical principles that can change one’s outlook and life. Max and Jenna both have a way with words. They make the truth plain and simple. They are great encouragers in this journey of faith. You can’t go wrong by spending time with this book.

How Many Kings: Songs for Christmas - Downhere

Solid, mostly pop/rock Christmas offering

How Many Kings: Songs for Christmas
Artist: Downhere
Label: Centricity Music
Length: 13 tracks/44:40 minutes

How Many Kings by Downhere springs in part from the success of the title track, which originally appeared on their last recording, Ending is Beginning, as a bonus. The song, which had significant airplay on Christian radio, is included here in its original form and in a slightly re-imagined version at the end. Recording a Christmas album was also the natural outgrowth of being a part of the Bethlehem Skyline Tour with other Centricity artists. Catch the 2009 tour if you can.

Though the title song may be the favorite, there is much more to enjoy. Whether new or old, most songs are done in Downhere’s pop/rock style with acoustic sounds more in evidence. There are also some lovely musical interludes that reflect the wonder of the season.

As far as content goes, most songs contain substantive Christian reflections. The exceptions are “5 Golden Rings,” which only lasts long enough for you to hear those memorable words, and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” which has a down-home, Salvation Army band sound. These were thrown in for fun.

I have heard instrumental versions of “Good King Wenceslas” and “Bring a Torch, Isabella” but rarely, if ever, have I heard the lyrics as you do here. The former is a blues-flavored rumble and the later a favorite with its pleasant melody, vocal tradeoffs and mesmerizing guitar.

The two co-front men, guitarist Marc Martel and keyboardist Jason Germain, are both outstanding on vocals. The musicianship and production are excellent. I especially enjoy the chiming guitar work that provides the winsome hooks.

Another favorite is the upbeat “Christmas in Our Hearts,” which has a strong feel-good vibe. It’s punctuated by horns that are as clear as a cold winter’s morning. Chase the blues away with this song.

“Silent Night” is a beautiful, stripped-down affair with piano, vocals, strings and a little acoustic guitar at the end. “What Child is This” is in classical guitar mode with vocals that have a pristine quality.

Downhere has done an excellent job of fusing their style with the more familiar melodies. They add just the right amount of creativity, which makes this accessible to a wide audience. This is a great way not only to celebrate the birth of Christ, but ten years together and seven recordings, not counting their initial independent release.

Love and War - Barlow Girl

An urgent call to relationship and boldness

Love and War
Artist: BarlowGirl (http://www.barlowgirl.com/)
Label: Fervent Records
Length: 11 tracks/43:08 minutes

You can hear the urgency in BarlowGirl’s Love and War. The opening “Come Alive” starts with, “Wake up, get out, there’s no time to waste now. Never shut up, it’s our time to speak out.” On “Running Out of Time” (the title says it all), they declare, “This is war, so pick your side.”

This album does battle by boldly proclaiming truth, which serves to combat lies. As I listened, pockets of deceit were being stripped away, leaving a desire to be more aligned with God’s heart. Having a passion for God is a repeated theme on several songs.

The music is a perfect complement. Jarring rock accompanies the more warrior-like stances. Producer Otto Price (GRITS, dcTalk) adds innovative touches.

The group becomes more melodious and pop-oriented when they focus on relationship with God. “It’s all about being in love with the Lord, and about that relationship with Him. If we don't have that …, we can’t have the boldness,” says Becca Barlow.

“Beautiful Ending,” the first single, is a gorgeous piano-driven track about not losing our first love. It’s forward-looking, wondering about our future with God.

One of the most moving moments is found on “Tears Fall,” which deals with a tragedy in our society. For two and half years BarlowGirl has struggled with writing a song that articulates their pro-life stance. This lovely, stripped-down ballad avoids accusation and in the process becomes a song of confession and repentance. A gospel choir makes it even better.

The Beatles had “Good Day Sunshine” and now BarlowGirl ends on a high note with “Hello Sunshine.” It leaves us with the prayer, “Let my eyes see all the beauty.” It’s a fun, upbeat way to end their third studio release (not counting their Christmas project, Home for Christmas).